Flynn’s ‘Ohe: Hawaii’s Critically Endangered Forest Gem
Meet Flynn’s ‘ohe (Tetraplasandra flynnii), one of Hawaii’s most precious and precarious native trees. This remarkable species isn’t just rare—it’s critically imperiled, making it one of the most endangered plants in the Hawaiian Islands. If you’re passionate about native Hawaiian plants and conservation, this tree deserves your attention, though growing it presents unique challenges and responsibilities.
A Tree on the Brink
Flynn’s ‘ohe holds a Global Conservation Status of S1, which translates to Critically Imperiled. This sobering classification means there are typically only five or fewer known populations, with fewer than 1,000 individual plants remaining in the wild. This isn’t just rare—it’s hanging on by a thread, making every single specimen incredibly valuable for Hawaii’s biodiversity.
Where Flynn’s ‘Ohe Calls Home
This endemic Hawaiian species grows exclusively in Hawaii, where it once thrived in the islands’ native forests. As a perennial tree that can reach heights greater than 13-16 feet, Flynn’s ‘ohe developed alongside Hawaii’s unique ecosystem over thousands of years, playing an irreplaceable role in the forest community.
What Makes This Tree Special
As a member of the Araliaceae family (related to ginseng), Flynn’s ‘ohe likely displays the characteristic compound leaves and small, clustered flowers typical of its genus. While detailed descriptions are limited due to its rarity, this tree represents millions of years of evolution in Hawaii’s isolated island environment.
The tree typically grows as a single-trunked specimen, though environmental conditions might occasionally cause it to develop multiple stems or remain shorter than its normal towering height. Like many Hawaiian natives, it’s perfectly adapted to the islands’ unique climate and soil conditions.
Growing Flynn’s ‘Ohe: A Conservation Responsibility
Important Conservation Note: Given its critically imperiled status, Flynn’s ‘ohe should only be planted using responsibly sourced material from legitimate conservation programs or botanical institutions. Never collect from wild populations!
If you’re fortunate enough to obtain legally sourced Flynn’s ‘ohe through conservation efforts:
- Climate Requirements: USDA Zones 10-12 (tropical Hawaiian conditions)
- Growing Conditions: Prefers humid, well-draining soils with partial shade to filtered sunlight
- Soil: Rich, organic forest soils similar to native Hawaiian forest conditions
- Water: Consistent moisture without waterlogging
- Care Level: Expert level – requires specialized knowledge of Hawaiian native plant cultivation
Garden Role and Landscape Use
Flynn’s ‘ohe isn’t your typical landscape tree. Its primary value lies in conservation gardens, botanical collections, and specialized Hawaiian native plant gardens. If you’re creating an authentic Hawaiian forest restoration project or educational garden, this species represents the pinnacle of conservation horticulture.
The tree likely provides nectar and pollen for native Hawaiian insects, making it valuable for supporting indigenous wildlife. However, its extreme rarity means its ecological relationships are still being studied and protected.
Why Consider Flynn’s ‘Ohe?
You might want to grow Flynn’s ‘ohe if you:
- Are involved in Hawaiian plant conservation efforts
- Manage a botanical garden or educational facility
- Have expertise in rare Hawaiian native plant cultivation
- Want to contribute directly to species preservation
However, this tree isn’t suitable for casual gardeners or typical landscape use due to its rarity, specialized care requirements, and limited availability through legal channels.
The Bottom Line
Flynn’s ‘ohe represents both the beauty and fragility of Hawaii’s native ecosystems. While most gardeners won’t have the opportunity to grow this critically endangered species, learning about it highlights the importance of protecting and restoring Hawaii’s native plant communities.
If you’re passionate about Hawaiian conservation, consider supporting botanical gardens, native plant societies, and conservation organizations working to protect species like Flynn’s ‘ohe. Sometimes the most important plants are those we admire from afar while working to ensure their survival for future generations.
For those lucky enough to work with this species through legitimate conservation programs, you’re not just growing a tree—you’re helping preserve a irreplaceable piece of Hawaii’s natural heritage.
